Training youth in both Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and leadership is important for several reasons:

1. Developing Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence. SEL enhances self-awareness, helping youth understand their emotions, strengths, and weaknesses. Leadership training builds on this by teaching them to manage these emotions effectively in various scenarios, improving decision-making and relationship-building.

2. Building Strong Communication Skills. Both SEL and leadership training emphasize effective communication. SEL focuses on listening, empathy, and conflict resolution, while leadership training helps youth articulate ideas, motivate others, and navigate challenges.

3. Fostering Empathy and Social Responsibility. SEL promotes empathy and understanding others’ perspectives. Leadership training teaches youth how to apply these skills in group settings, promoting inclusive leadership and ethical decision-making, which fosters social responsibility.

4. Enhancing Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking. SEL encourages resilience and creative problem-solving by teaching students to handle stress and setbacks. Leadership training equips them to take initiative, assess risks, and lead teams to solve problems collaboratively.

5. Encouraging Collaboration and Teamwork. SEL supports healthy social interactions, while leadership training encourages working well in teams, managing group dynamics, and taking on responsibilities that contribute to collective goals.

6. Preparing for Future Challenges. The combination of SEL and leadership skills prepares youth to handle real-world challenges. Whether in personal relationships, academics, or future careers, these skills equip them to navigate complexity with emotional resilience and ethical leadership.

Together, Dr. Sharon will demonstrate how SEL and leadership training create well-rounded, emotionally intelligent, and responsible future leaders.

~ Dr. Sharon Johnson

Join Dr. Sharon Johnson for an exciting interactive game. Watch youth come alive in this unique game experience.

The John Maxwell Team Leadership Game for Teens is an interactive game that helps young people discover their leadership potential and learn about accountability and trust. It's designed for groups of 6–12 teens and is part of the John Maxwell Team's Global Youth Initiative. The game is based on the teachings of John C. Maxwell and is intended to be fun and engaging while also challenging participants to discuss leadership values and principles.